Petrov takes break from U21 coaching role after recovery from acute leukaemia

Stiliyan Petrov will take a break from his coaching duties with Aston Villa's U21 side after finding the workload to be 'too much too soon' following his recovery from acute leukaemia.

The former Villa midfielder was appointed in May 2013, having retired from playing, but decided he is not yet ready for the day-to-day nature of the position.

Petrov told the club's official website: 'The entire Villa family has been incredibly supportive and I am so grateful for this, as is Paulina (wife) and my close family circle.

Break: Stiliyan Petrov has taken time off from his role as assistant U21 coach

'I love my new role with the Club, I
love the involvement and I want to continue to make a valid
contribution. In order to do this to the best of my ability, however, I
need to take some time away as I have found the day-to-day demands of
the job to be just a little too much too soon.

'I intend to spend some time with my
family and in six months or so we'll assess how everything is then.
Physically, I just need to build myself up some more before I can throw
myself into things in the only way I know how which is full-on
commitment.

'I appreciate very much the
understanding shown by the Club. I have spoken to the manager and to the
chief executive and they, in particular, have been great in helping me
to reach a decision which I feel is the right one while also reassuring
me that the Club will always be here for me, which I know in my heart.

'Thank you again to all of the fans
and I will very much remain a part of the Villa family throughout the
coming six months or so while I concentrate on getting stronger and,
physically, being back to myself.'

Villa manager Paul Lambert added: 'We
are extremely grateful at the Club for the commitment, effort and
dedication which Stiliyan has brought to his role.

Battle: The former Villa and Celtic midfielder was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in 2012

'I fully understated his position and
the Club is entirely supportive of his decision. It's a case just now
of it having been a bit too much too soon at this moment in time but
there will always be something here for Stan.

'He's totally aware of this and we'll
revisit things when he feels he is fully ready for that day-to-day
involvement again. One thing is certain, he will always have a part to
play at this football club and everyone at Aston Villa will echo that
sentiment.'